Family Adventure to Chapada dos Veadeiros

Secrets of the Cerrado
Today was a day of exploration, a journey into the heart of Chapada dos Veadeiros that left me breathless, not just from the hiking, but from the sheer beauty of this place. From chasing the elusive Cachoeira do Segredo to witnessing a sunset that painted the sky with hues I'd never seen before, every moment felt like a precious discovery.


Discover the hidden beauty of Cachoeira do Segredo in Chapada dos Veadeiros: a stunning waterfall, refreshing pools, and an unforgettable hiking experience.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Buritis in Alto Paraíso de Goiás. I opted for the *pastelão*, a large, savory pastry filled with cheese and meat, while Fatou enjoyed a plate of fresh fruit and *pão de queijo*. Ebrima, ever the adventurous one, tried a local juice made from exotic fruits I couldn't even pronounce. Energized, we set off towards our first destination: Cachoeira do Segredo.

The drive itself was an experience. The landscape transformed from the familiar townscape to the wild beauty of the Cerrado, the Brazilian savanna. Red dirt roads, dotted with *candeias* trees and termite mounds, led us closer to the park's entrance. The final stretch was a bit bumpy, but nothing our rented car couldn't handle. I was glad we decided against booking a hotel in advance, as this flexibility allowed us to truly immerse ourselves in the journey.

The trailhead for Trilha da Cachoeira do Segredo is located about 53 km from Alto Paraíso, with the last 8 km on a dirt road. As we started our hike, the air was thick with the scent of damp earth and wildflowers. The trail, a moderate 7 km trek, wound along the riverbank, treating us to glimpses of crystal-clear pools and lush vegetation. The October sun peeked through the canopy, creating dappled patterns on the path ahead. I was glad I remembered to pack the insect repellent; the mosquitoes were already making their presence known.


Discover the hidden beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros on the Trilha da Cachoeira do Segredo, a stunning waterfall trail near Alto Paraíso de Goiás.

We passed two natural pools, each more inviting than the last. The water was so clear, we could see tiny fish darting among the rocks. Ebrima, of course, couldn't resist a quick dip, while Fatou and I enjoyed the cool spray from the miniature waterfalls cascading into the pools. It was a refreshing break before tackling the final stretch of the trail.

As we approached Cachoeira do Segredo, the sound of rushing water grew louder. Finally, we emerged into a breathtaking canyon, where the waterfall cascaded down from a height of over 100 meters. The water plunged into a deep, emerald-green pool, creating a misty spray that enveloped everything. The sun only hits the canyon during a specific time of day, creating a mystical, shaded atmosphere.

The Cachoeira do Segredo, lived up to its reputation. The waterfall was framed by a stunning canyon with walls covered in lush greenery. The water was icy cold, a stark contrast to the warm October air. I took a deep breath, closed my eyes, and let the spray wash over me. It was invigorating, a baptism in the heart of the Cerrado. I felt a sense of renewal, a connection to nature that I rarely experience in the urban sprawl of Bielefeld.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After soaking in the beauty of Cachoeira do Segredo, we made our way back to Alto Paraíso. The hike back was just as rewarding, with the late afternoon sun casting long shadows across the landscape. We arrived in town tired but exhilarated, our minds filled with the images of cascading water and emerald-green pools.

For lunch, we found ourselves at Zu's Bistro, an Italian restaurant known for its creative risottos. The restaurant was simple, with tables set on a small veranda. Fatou and I shared a risotto with chicken and *pequi*, a local fruit with a unique, slightly tangy flavor. Ebrima, still craving something familiar, opted for a classic spaghetti carbonara. The food was delicious and satisfying, the perfect fuel for our next adventure.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Zu's Bistro in Alto Paraíso de Goiás - where every meal feels like a trip to Italy.

Our final stop for the day was Mirante Novo Horizonte, a viewpoint located just a short drive from the town center. As we drove up to the *mirante*, I could feel the anticipation building. I had heard so much about the sunsets in Chapada dos Veadeiros, and I was eager to witness one for myself.


Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park from this easily accessible viewpoint in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.

We arrived at the *mirante* just as the sun began its descent. The sky was a canvas of vibrant colors – oranges, pinks, and purples blending seamlessly into one another. Below us, the town of Alto Paraíso stretched out like a miniature landscape, nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Cerrado. The view was simply breathtaking.

Fatou and I found a quiet spot on a rocky outcrop and sat in silence, watching as the sun dipped below the horizon. The air was still and the only sound was the gentle chirping of crickets. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to reflect on the beauty of the day and the incredible journey we were on.

Ebrima, meanwhile, was busy capturing the scene with his camera, experimenting with different angles and filters. He's quite the photographer, always seeking to capture the essence of a place through his lens. I have always enjoyed photography as well, but I feel like Ebrima has surpassed me in skill.

As the last rays of sunlight faded, we made our way back to town for dinner. We chose La Parrilla, an Argentinian restaurant known for its grilled meats. The aroma of sizzling beef filled the air as we walked in. We ordered a mixed grill platter, a feast of different cuts of meat cooked to perfection. It was a fitting end to a day of adventure, a celebration of the flavors of Brazil.


Discover La Parrilla in Alto Paraíso de Goiás for an authentic Uruguayan dining experience filled with flavor and warmth.

Before heading back to our pousada, we stopped by Arte Nossa - a loja da Nêga, a local shop selling handicrafts and souvenirs. Fatou picked up a hand-painted ceramic bowl, while Ebrima bought a t-shirt with a design inspired by the rock formations of the park. I found a small, wooden carving of a *tucano*, a colorful bird that I had spotted earlier in the day. It was a perfect reminder of our time in Chapada dos Veadeiros.


Explore the vibrant rock shop, Arte Nossa - a loja da Nêga, in Alto Paraíso de Goiás for unique crystals and artisanal treasures.

As I lay in bed tonight, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences of the day. From the challenging hike to Cachoeira do Segredo to the stunning sunset at Mirante Novo Horizonte, every moment was a gift. This trip has reminded me of the importance of connecting with nature, of seeking out beauty in unexpected places. I am excited for tomorrow, when we plan to visit Cachoeira do Rodeador and the Enchanted Well Waterfall. I am especially looking forward to unwinding at the Bar do Mirante after a long day of hiking. Chapada dos Veadeiros is truly a special place, and I feel so lucky to be sharing it with my family. It's moments like these that make the journey worthwhile, that remind me of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world, far beyond the confines of my mechanical engineering office in Bielefeld.

October is proving to be a great time to visit, with hot days averaging around 34°C and cooler nights around 21°C. Although it is the start of the rainy season, the rainfall is still mild. I am also glad to see that there are events happening in Alto Paraíso during our stay, such as the Playon Festival.

I am looking forward to sharing more of my experiences with you all. Until then, *até logo*!